Frozen Shoulders Facts and Information

Patients with diabetes are at particular risk for developing a frozen shoulder. Other endocrine abnormalities, such as thyroid problems, can also lead to this condition.

Age & GenderFrozen shoulder most commonly affects patients between the ages of 40 to 60 years old, and it is twice as common in women than in men.

Frozen shoulder typically develops slowly, and in three stages. Each of these stages can last a number of months.

■Painful stage. During this stage, pain occurs with any movement of your shoulder, and your shoulder's range of motion starts to become limited.■Frozen stage. Pain may begin to diminish during this stage. However, your shoulder becomes stiffer, and your range of motion decreases notably.■Thawing stage. During the thawing stage, the range of motion in your shoulder begins to improve.For some people, the pain worsens at night, sometimes disrupting normal sleep patterns.

If you have or feel stiffness or pain in your shoulder or upper arm consult your doctor or health care representative, always consult your doctor for a physical evaluation exam before attempting any physical excercise program.